news

Fast, bouncy drop-in pitch installed for Pakistan, Australia Test in Perth

The first Test match between Australia and Pakistan is scheduled to take place from December 14 to 18

Fast, bouncy drop-in pitch installed for Pakistan, Australia Test in Perth PHOTO: Cricket Australia

Perth Stadium is preparing for the upcoming first Test match between Australia and Pakistan, scheduled to take place from December 14 to 18.

The stadium has undergone significant preparations, including the installation of five drop-in pitches at the wicket square.

Each of these drop-in pitches weighs around 25 tonnes, and the installation process for this distinctive feature spanned two days.

The meticulous care for these pitches began in February when WA Cricket curators started nurturing them in the adjacent nursery, located on the northern side of the stadium near the outdoor practice wickets. Utilizing local clay and grass species, the drop-in wicket was recently relocated with the assistance of a unique 40-tonne cricket wicket transporter.

These pitches have been designed to replicate the fast and bouncy characteristics of the iconic WACA Ground. Following the conclusion of the Test match, Perth Stadium will host five home matches for the Perth Scorchers in BBL 13, commencing on December 20.